double-fault
Server's costly blunder
In tennis, a double-fault occurs when a player fails to land both service attempts in the correct box, giving the point to the opponent.
The term works as both noun and verb: She double-faulted at match point.
A double-fault often signals nerves or fatigue, making it particularly costly in tight moments.
tennis
Attend to needs
- second serveTennis retry after fault
- unforced errorMistake made without pressure
- aceSingle-pip card
- deucePair on dice
advantage · break point · service game · let · footwork · toss · baseline · net
consequence
Sudden change in advantage
- pressureForce upon contact
- chokeObstruct breathing or airflow
- nervesTense apprehension
- frustrationDispleasure from blocked efforts
serve
Attend to needs
- second serveTennis retry after fault
- unforced errorMistake made without pressure
- aceSingle-pip card
deuce · advantage · break point · service game · let · footwork · toss · baseline · net · volley
momentum shift
Sudden change in advantage